Can you buy property in Paris without being a French resident?
Yes, with no nationality restrictions whatsoever. French law allows any individual or legal entity, regardless of nationality or tax residency, to purchase real estate in France. No residence permit is required.
However, certain steps in the process are more complex for non-resident buyers: bank financing, taxation, and managing administrative procedures remotely.
Financing: the main obstacle
Obtaining a mortgage from a French bank as a non-resident is possible but more demanding. Banks generally require a minimum down payment of 20 to 30% (compared to 10 to 15% for residents), stable and documented income, and sometimes the pledging of a life insurance policy or securities portfolio as additional collateral.
Several French banks have departments dedicated to non-residents: BNP Paribas International Buyers, Credit Agricole, HSBC France. Brokers specialising in international financing are valuable contacts for putting together your application.
An alternative: financing the purchase through a bank in your country of residence, using the Parisian property as collateral. This solution is common for British, Swiss and American buyers.
Taxation for non-residents
The purchase is subject to the same notary fees as for residents (7 to 8% for existing properties). However, the taxation of rental income and capital gains differs depending on your country of residence and whether or not a tax treaty exists with France.
Rental income earned in France is taxed in France, at a minimum rate of 20% for non-residents (compared to the progressive scale for residents). Social charges (17.2%) apply for residents outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland, with a reduced rate of 7.5% for European residents.
Capital gains on resale are taxed at 19% plus social charges, with a progressive allowance starting from the 6th year of ownership.
Buying without travelling to Paris
A notarial power of attorney allows you to sign the final deed without being physically present. Your notary drafts a power of attorney that you sign before a notary, consul or public officer in your country of residence. This document authorises a trusted person (often your property hunter or your notary) to sign on your behalf.
For the preliminary sales agreement, electronic signatures are increasingly accepted by Parisian notary firms, which considerably simplifies the remote process.
Our expat support service
At Home Select, we assist dozens of buyers based in London, Dubai, New York, Singapore or Geneva every year. Video tours, photo and video reports, notary and broker coordination: everything is designed so that you can buy without travelling. Discover our dedicated expat page.
FAQ
Can an American buy property in Paris?
Yes, with no restrictions whatsoever. American buyers must, however, be careful about taxation: the Franco-American tax treaty and FATCA/FBAR obligations require specific filings.
What is the minimum down payment for a non-resident?
French banks generally require a 20 to 30% down payment for non-residents, compared to 10 to 15% for French tax residents.
Can you sign remotely at the notary’s office?
Yes, thanks to the notarial power of attorney. You sign the power of attorney in your country, and a trusted person signs the deed on your behalf in Paris.
Do you need to open a bank account in France?
Yes, it is essential. The transfer of funds (down payment + notary fees) must go through a French account. Most French banks open accounts for non-residents.
